Oh Canada: Kevin Pillar Suspended for Anti-Gay Slur

Kevin Pillar can do it all on the field: make dazzling catches, crush home runs and leg out doubles. But one thing that the Blue Jays‘ outfielder can add to the list is the use of an anti-gay slur. The incident occurred on Wednesday in Atlanta.

He also was quick to recant following Toronto’s 8-4 loss to the Braves on Wednesday night, according to the Toronto Sun.

“It was immature, it was stupid, it was uncalled for,” Pillar said about the altercation that seemed to begin with him objecting to a quick pitch, but also included at minimum words for Braves pitcher Jason Motte. “It’s part of the game game, it’s just I’m a competitive guy and (it was) heat of the moment.

“Obviously I’m going to do whatever I’ve got to do to reach out and apologize and let him know he didn’t do anything wrong. It was all me.”

There always seems to be an occurrence or two during a season–all professional sports–where someone is suspended for using language that is deemed “inappropriate.” However, the use of anti-gay or LGBTQ language is at a tipping point. And this language is starting to cost players some money.

The good news stemming from Pillar’s fine is that it will be donated to charity. Although, it is unclear which charity the money will go to.

Language in sports is something that has become a hot-button issue. Whether race-related epithets are used or anti-gay phrases, it is a part of culture that needs to end. Society is changing and cleaning up professional sports begins with words.

If the two-game suspension for Pillar is any indication, teams are beginning to put their foot down. Now if only they would get rid of that pesky and detrimental N-word.